Why Relocating to Serbia Could Be the Best Move You Make: Julian Guto’s Story

Julian’s decision to move to Serbia wasn’t based on a single event but rather a growing realization about the lifestyle he desired. After traveling through Europe, he found that the fast-paced life in Canada didn’t align with his values. "I realized the way I like to live doesn’t fit Canada as much as it does Central and Eastern Europe," he explains. Julian's journey started with a visit to Hungary, where he fell in love with the affordability and vibrant lifestyle. A suggestion from a Serbian friend led him to visit Serbia, and after falling in love with Novi Sad, Julian and his wife made the decision to stay for good. They’ve never looked back, visiting Canada just three times in the past six years.

One of the biggest cultural shocks Julian encountered was the approach to work-life balance. In Canada, work is often the central focus, with people taking pride in working long hours. In contrast, Serbians work to live, not live to work. "In Serbia, people work to pay their bills, but their life outside of work is equally, if not more, important," says Julian. The Serbian culture prioritizes family, leisure, and time spent enjoying life. For example, when someone in Serbia works less, it's seen as a sign of a better quality of life rather than a lack of ambition.

Another cultural shift Julian found in Serbia was how the society treats children. "In Serbia, kids come first. Everyone looks after them, and it's a beautiful part of the culture," Julian remarks. Unlike in Canada, where children might sometimes be seen as an inconvenience in public spaces, in Serbia, families are supported, and children are cherished by the community.

Starting a family in Serbia has been a rewarding experience for Julian and his wife. Julian notes that Serbian society treats children with an extraordinary level of care and respect. Whether it’s offering to hold your child in a public place or allowing you to skip to the front of the line when you're with a young child, the supportive environment made it easier for Julian to settle in with his young family. For those considering relocating to Serbia with children, this is certainly an aspect to consider.

While Canada is known for its vast and breathtaking landscapes, Julian has found the natural beauty in Serbia to be just as compelling, especially considering the country’s small size. From the dramatic landscapes of Tara National Park to the serene beauty of the Danube River, Julian believes Serbia’s nature offers a charm that rivals his homeland’s larger wilderness areas. "Serbia’s natural beauty is incredible. The mountains, the rivers, and the landscape just make it an amazing place to live and explore," Julian shares.

Moreover, Serbia’s central location in Europe makes it a perfect base for travel. In just a few hours, you can visit nearby countries like Hungary, Croatia, and even Greece. Flights to major European cities are inexpensive, with tickets to Barcelona, Dubai, and other destinations costing as little as $100.

While Serbia offers many benefits, Julian emphasizes the importance of understanding the challenges, especially when it comes to administrative processes. Serbia’s bureaucracy can be a bit overwhelming, especially for newcomers who don’t speak the language. However, once you’re familiar with the system and know the right people, navigating the process becomes easier.

“Everything is about connections here. If you know the right people, life is much easier,” Julian advises. He suggests that newcomers learn about the local systems and build their networks to make the transition smoother. Having a reliable relocation agency or consultant can be a game-changer when it comes to handling tasks like Serbian residency applications, opening a bank account in Serbia for foreigners, and even buying property in Serbia.

Julian’s journey in Serbia has been an incredible experience, and despite the initial challenges, he believes it was absolutely worth it. “It’s not easy, but it’s been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. We’re living debt-free, our house is ours, and we have the freedom to live life on our terms,” Julian says.

If you're considering relocating to Serbia, it’s important to understand both the positives and the potential challenges. From the cost of living and family-friendly environment to the rich culture and natural beauty, Serbia offers a unique lifestyle for those who are ready to embrace it.

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